dignitary

noun

dig·​ni·​tary ˈdig-nə-ˌter-ē 

-ˌte-rē

plural dignitaries

: one who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of dignity or honor

dignitary adjective

Examples of dignitary in a Sentence

The dinner was attended by many foreign dignitaries.

Recent Examples on the Web

The school back then had a solid curriculum and robust extracurricular offerings, including a world-class band that played for numerous dignitaries, which later in the century would include President Richard Nixon. — Literary Hub, 10 Aug. 2026

There it was met by Ivorian minister of culture Francoise Remarck, along with local dignitaries and residents. — Anne Doran, ARTnews.com, 10 Aug. 2026

In Gaza City, community elders, mokhtars, local dignitaries and civil defense crews gathered Tuesday for a mass funeral after the recovery effort that was accomplished with a single excavator and simple hand tools. — Bilal Shbeir, Los Angeles Times, 5 Aug. 2026

Hidden at the end of a cul-de-sac atop Filaret Hill, Bucharest’s highest point, this property, which is rumored to have once served as a KGB headquarters, caters to a crowd that includes dignitaries and celebrities. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1635, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for dignitary

• accessary
• adversary
• ancillary
• apiary
• arbitrary
• aviary
• axillary
• bacillary
• beriberi
• bestiary
• breviary
• budgetary

Kids Definition

dignitary

noun

dig·​ni·​tary ˈdig-nə-ˌter-ē 

plural dignitaries

: a person of high position or honor

dignitaries of the church